At one point in everyone’s life, there were little annoying red zits covering the adolescent face. For some, this period of time was brief and painless, leaving behind little permanent trace. However, others who experienced heavy cystic acne may have residues of scarring, discoloration, pitting, and redness even multiple years after adolescence. Some of these afflictions can be attributed to stress, hormonal changes, and genetic predispositions, but a factor that some overlook when attempting to counteract acne with treatments is diet! Diet plays a large role in dictating how one’s skin will break out.
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Important research
A review in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology mentions a class of cases where diet influences the outcome of a skin condition, such as acne, and another class where diet acts as a preventative measure for conditions like skin cancer and signs of aging. Research has found links to specific foods, such as dairy products, and a high glycemic diet negatively impact the skin’s appearance. Glycemic load is related to the quantity of carbohydrates consumed as well as the rate of carbohydrates absorbed. Sugar, white bread, and white rice quickly absorb and elevate levels of insulin for proper digestion. Insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) have been shown to increase sebum production and stimulate adrenal androgen synthesis which creates an environment fit for the spread of acne.
The problem of Western diet
Interestingly, these foods with a high glycemic index are characteristic of a typical Western diet. Acne is not present in non-Westernized native populations in places like Papua New Guinea and Paraguay, making the high glycemic load of Western diet the subject of research scrutiny. When this theory was tested with randomized controlled trials, a 10-week low glycemic load diet resulted in improvement of acne. Histopathology indicated decreased size of sebaceous glands in the skin, thereby reducing the chances for acne to form altogether.
It’s all about balance!
Diet has been a largely overlooked factor that influences acne at a fundamental level. The food that we put into our body will in some way or another become apparent on the surface due to the underlying molecular mechanisms that connect everything together. Drinking enough water is another important consideration for skincare, and when coupled with a proper diet, your body’s overall health improves! As with anything in life, the key is balance; a balanced diet, lifestyle, and skincare routine will help fight and eliminate acne.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4106357/